We’ve all had those times when a bit of extra cash would make life a whole lot easier, and you know what? When those times roll around, you might just be able to find the extra money you need in one of the following ways.
Pic Credit: Pixabay Pexels
1. Unclaimed Bank Accounts and Pensions are Money Hiding in Plain Sight
Okay, so it might sound obvious, but actually, thousands of people have money lying around in dormant accounts that they could gain access to if only they took the time to look, You might find it ridiculous that you would have a bank account or ISA you have forgotten about, but it really isn’t, so check out My Lost Account and you might just be pleasantly surprised. It’s your money, so take it back and put it to good use!
2. Discover a Secret Inheritance
Okay, so this might sound a bit far-fetched, or like something out of a crime thriller novel you once read, but actually, it’s pretty commonplace. If you’ve ever watched shows that follow heir hunters, you will know that they are professionals who track down the relatives of people who have died without leaving a will, in order to give them money that the deceased has left behind. But, did you know you can also check the Bona Vacantia list list yourself? Sure, it might be a long shot, but you never know, and actually, it can be pretty interesting too!
3. Check for Unclaimed Tax Refunds
The taxman might not be everyone’s best mate, but HMRC could actually be holding onto money that’s yours. Unclaimed tax refunds are surprisingly common, especially if you’ve overpaid or missed out on a tax relief you qualified for. If you’ve worked multiple jobs, claimed expenses, or even had a year where you didn’t work much, you could be owed a nice little windfall. Dig through your tax records or give HMRC a ring – it’s well worth a look.
4. Sell Your Old Stuff (The Easy Way)
When times get tough, sometimes your old belongings can be your ticket to some quick cash. You’d be amazed at what people will pay for stuff that’s just gathering dust in your attic. We’re talking clothes, books, electronics, furniture – even vintage video games! Head over to eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Depop for a bit of virtual car boot sale action. You’ll declutter and make money in one go – who knew all that old junk could be so profitable?
5. Tap Into Your Skills with Freelancing or Gigs
6. Cashback and Rewards Apps are Free Money in Your Pocket
If you’re not already using cashback apps, it’s time to start. These handy apps let you earn cash on the stuff you’re already buying, just by shopping through their links. Apps like TopCashback and Quidco are particularly popular in the UK, and they give you a percentage of your purchase back as cashback. It’s like a little surprise every time you check your balance, and over time, it can add up to a decent amount.
Pic Credit: Pexels by Suzy Hazelwood:
7. Check Your Local Council for Grants and Benefits
Believe it or not, your local council may have grants, benefits, or rebate schemes that are meant to help people just like you – and most go unclaimed. From council tax relief to energy efficiency grants, it’s worth checking in with your council’s website or even giving them a call to see what’s available. You could find a benefit or rebate you never knew existed, putting more money back in your pocket each month.
8.Sign Up for Focus Groups and Surveys
Companies are constantly looking for feedback on their products, and they’re willing to pay for it. Focus groups and paid surveys are a simple way to make money by sharing your opinions, and all you need is a bit of time. Check sites like Swagbucks, Prolific, or Toluna for online surveys, or look for local focus groups that need participants. It’s not exactly a goldmine, but a few surveys here and there can add up.
9. Dig Up Lost Gift Cards and Loyalty Points
Remember those old gift cards or loyalty points you shoved in a drawer ages ago? They might be worth more than you think. Many of us lose track of loyalty points or let gift cards expire, but if you check in with stores or websites, you could find some forgotten value. And don’t forget loyalty programs like Tesco Clubcard or Nectar points – those points can add up to discounts, free items, or even cash value. It’s like finding “free” money!
10. Go Green and Save Money on Bills
If you’re looking to save cash each month, consider a green overhaul. Energy-efficient light bulbs, low-flow shower heads, and proper insulation can save you loads on utilities. Many energy companies even offer discounts or rebates for eco-friendly upgrades. Small changes make a big difference on your bills over time, so if you’ve been eyeing those fancy new LED bulbs or that smart thermostat, consider them investments in saving you money.
11. Rent Out Your Space (Or Your Driveway)
If you’ve got a spare room or even a driveway in a busy area, there’s a good chance someone will pay to use it. Platforms like Airbnb or SpareRoom make it easy to rent out space short-term, and you can even rent out your driveway through sites like JustPark if you live near busy city spots, stadiums, or train stations. It’s a low-effort way to make a bit of extra cash without needing to lift a finger (well, maybe just one, to hand over the keys).
12. Look for Free Money with Unclaimed Assets
It may sound too good to be true, but there’s a surprising amount of unclaimed money floating around out there, from forgotten insurance payouts to old investments. Check out the Unclaimed Assets Register in the UK – it’s a central database where you can see if you’ve got any lost or forgotten assets waiting for you. If you’re lucky, you might find some cash that’s been hiding in plain sight.
If you need more money for whatever reason, it’s best not to panic, and instead think about what you can do to find it, and you know what? You have an excellent roadmap for doing so above, so take a breath and see what you can do!
Please note this is a contributed post.
